Darlene Agnes Bestland

Darlene Bestland of Marine on the St. Croix passed away at her home on Monday, October 15, 2018 at the age of 80.

Darlene Agnes Holler was born on October 18, 1937 to Theresa Holler in Two Inlets, Minnesota.

Darlene graduated from Park Rapids High School in 1956.  Shortly after, she married David Bestland and raised 8 children.  Thinking that might not be enough chaos, she later adopted Jeremy and raised him as her own.

Darlene was an accomplished painter and spent most of her winters in front of a canvas.  She was also an avid reader who loved encyclopedias as much as an Agatha Christie novel.

Darlene eagerly awaited spring when she could spend time in her many flower beds.  She was a self-taught botanist who could name any plant.  We learned not to call until dusk as she spent the day outside all summer long tending to her beautiful gardens.  It was truly her passion.

Darlene loved her family with all her heart.  And she loved people in general.  She would strike up conversations with complete strangers trying to make them smile, it made her day.  That was her Super Power. 

Darlene is survived by her children Annette Viebrock of Osceola, Angie (Dwayne) Scofield of Rush City, Deanna (Joe Cook) Gabrielson of Taylors Falls, Joanne Paulsen, Jeff Bestland both of St. Paul, Susan (Craig) Haugrud of Rush City; son-in-law John Svec of Scandia; 12 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; many other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her daughter Anita Svec, sons Jeremy Bestland and Dave Bestland.

A gathering of family and friends is planned from 3-6 PM; Saturday, November 3, 2018 at the Olson Funeral Chapel in Rush City. The interment will take place at First Lutheran Cemetery in Rush City.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Rush City~Olson Chapel. www.FuneralAndCremationService.com